Another Facility Hit by Gastrointestinal Illness

By 250 News

Northern Health has put visitng restrictions in place in yet another  facility.  This time it is The Pines   long-term care home in Burns Lake.  Just like the recent problems at GR Baker Hospital in Quesnel,  and earlier this winter at PGRH and in Mackenzie, the problem is gastrointestinal  illness.

It first surfaced on Wednesday, and so far, eleven patients, and seven staff members have become ill.

Northern Health is asking the public to avoid visiting The Pines until further notice. Members of residents’ immediate family are still welcome, provided they are well and have not had any symptoms like nausea, vomiting or diarrhea in the past 48 hours.

“This is the peak season for gastrointestinal illness”, said Dr. Lorna Medd, medical health officer. “Facility staff members are taking extra precautionary measures to prevent further spread, but we’re also asking the public to stay away as the disease has been prevalent in the general community.”

Infection control measures will remain in place at The Pines until the outbreak is declared over which is usually 48 hours after the last symptoms disappear.

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